GIRL math MATTERS

You've probably heard of girl math, but what is it really and how does it work? We chat to an expert about why this trend is not as frivolous as it may seem

- WORDS BY MECAYLA MASEKA

There's something powerful about the solidarity women share when we come together and realise just how much we have in common. Whether it's an experience or a good laugh, we've all seen a version of ourselves in someone else's story. This unity was particularly evident with the viral trend of 'girl math'. In fact, it resonated so deeply that TikTok videos about girl math have been viewed more than 3.3 billion times at the time of writing.

PURCHASE PLEASURE

But what is girl math, exactly? Simply put, it's the playful way in which women rationalise or justify their spending decisions and nonessential purchases. In the world of girl math, buying something on sale is considered 'saving' or even 'making a profit'; cosmetic procedures are a 'future investment' (as are accessories like shoes and handbags); and tickets for a concert are basically free because, well, you already paid for them months ago. If you pay for anything in cash that's already in your purse, that's also 'free'... It's quirky, it's fun and it speaks to how women relate to spending our cash in ways that feel familiar and empowering.